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In-Flight Fire Leads to Emergency Landing and Landing Gear Collapse (N4822R)

Joliet, IL, US

On March 28, 1992, a Cessna TR182 (registration N4822R) operated by Travel Express Aviation, Ltd was involved in an aviation accident near Joliet, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO FOLLOW EMERGENCY PROCEDURES, AND THE FAILURE OF THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE ELECTRICAL ARCING, AND THE LACK OF TOTAL EXPERIENCE IN THE TYPE OF AIRCRAFT BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

While in cruise at 3,000 feet, electrical arcing under the instrument panel started an in-flight fire. The pilot diverted, performed an emergency descent, and on touchdown the main landing gear collapsed. Examination failed to determine the arcing source.

Incident Details

During cruise flight at an altitude of 3,000 feet, electrical arcing began beneath the instrument panel. The arcing persisted and subsequently ignited an in-flight fire, which was fueled by the ignition of carpeting and upholstery.

Emergency Response

The pilot declared an emergency and diverted the aircraft to an alternate destination. As the fire continued, the pilot initiated an emergency descent. Upon touchdown, the main landing gear collapsed.

Post-Accident Examination

A subsequent examination of the aircraft was unable to determine the nature or origin of the electrical arcing that initiated the fire.

In-flight fire & smoke

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Mar 1992 Cessna TR182 accident near Joliet, IL?

While in cruise at 3,000 feet, electrical arcing under the instrument panel started an in-flight fire. The pilot diverted, performed an emergency descent, and on touchdown the main landing gear collapsed. Examination failed to determine the arcing source.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Mar 1992 involved a Cessna TR182, registration N4822R, operated by Travel Express Aviation, Ltd, at Joliet, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO FOLLOW EMERGENCY PROCEDURES, AND THE FAILURE OF THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE ELECTRICAL ARCING, AND THE LACK OF TOTAL EXPERIENCE IN THE TYPE OF AIRCRAFT BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14269. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.